SYRIAN families who have escaped war in their country and been brought to Wales have visited Machynlleth for a day out.

On 21 February, Mid Wales Refugee Action welcomed around 14 families who have escaped war and conflict in Syria and been brought to Aberystwyth and Newtown by a scheme called the Syrian Vulnerable Person Resettlement Scheme.

The day event was organised as part of the Machynlleth Town of Sanctuary project which aims to raise awareness of the issues many refugees face and extend the culture of welcome and hospitality to those who have been forced to leave their countries.

Over 50 people participated in the ‘sanctuary’ day for the families.

Visitors enjoyed strolling around Machynlleth market and playing in the playground.

They were welcomed by Simon Morpeth and Jim Griffiths of Machynlleth Town Council.

After a delicious Middle Eastern lunch, visitors were taken to visit the Centre for Alternative Technology and were introduced to the project by education officer Christine McLennan.

The families then enjoyed taking part in the half-term activities for children and being outdoors in nature. A number of Syrians who took part in the visit have friends from the town of Ghouta in Syria.

The area is currently under attack so as part of the visit around 50 people gathered at the clock tower for a vigil in solidarity with the residents of Ghouta.

Joumana Alshtiwi who has many friends from there hopes the vigil raised awareness.

He said: “The vigil was held in solidarity with civilians and innocent children in Eastern Ghouta who are facing massacre.

“Every time I see the messages, the photos, the screams from people there, and just feel helpless.

“This is not the first massacre but how many more war crimes should we witness?”

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